Dr. Dan Siegel on The Wheel of Awareness Practice

This episode is sponsored by our Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification. Register today for 80% off at ⁠⁠https://mindfulnessexercises.com/certify⁠ Can mindfulness truly help with pain relief? This powerful episode explores how mindfulness can shift our relationship with pain—both physical and emotional. Drawing from scientific insights, this episode dives into practical techniques that can reduce pain perception and promote healing. We also discuss key takeaways from You Are Not Your Pain by Vidyamala Burch and Danny Penman, a groundbreaking book on using mindfulness to navigate chronic pain. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort, stress, or simply want to deepen your practice, this conversation will leave you with valuable tools to transform the way you experience pain. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: ✔ How mindfulness can reduce pain intensity by up to 93% ✔ The difference between primary pain (physical sensation) and secondary pain (mental/emotional suffering) ✔ Why resisting pain can make it worse—and how mindfulness fosters acceptance ✔ The gate theory of pain and how meditation can actually change how the brain processes pain ✔ Mindful techniques like body scanning, mindful movement, and the 3-minute breathing space ✔ How habit releases can rewire your brain’s response to discomfort ✔ Why community and social connection play a crucial role in pain management Explore More Mindfulness Resources: 📚 Book Mentioned: You Are Not Your Pain – Vidyamala Burch & Danny Penman 🌱 Deepen Your Practice: Want to become a certified mindfulness teacher? Explore our Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification to learn how to guide others in mindfulness-based practices. → Click here to learn more 🔗 Join Our Growing Community: ✅ Website: Mindfulness Exercises ✅ Instagram: @Mindfulness.Exercises ✅ LinkedIn: Mindfulness Exercises ✅ Facebook: Mindfulness Exercises ✅ Connect Community for Mindfulness Teachers: Connect Mindfulness Community 🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share how mindfulness has helped you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

22 Feb 27min

This episode is sponsored by our Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification. Register today for 80% off at ⁠⁠https://mindfulnessexercises.com/certify⁠ Burnout can slowly dim the passion that once fueled our work, leaving us feeling disconnected and exhausted. As healers, therapists, coaches, and mindfulness professionals, we dedicate ourselves to others. But how often do we pause to replenish our own energy? This guided meditation of Mindfulness Exercises Podcast invites you to step back, breathe, and reconnect with the deeper purpose behind your work. Through mindfulness, you will be encouraged to cultivate resilience, gratitude, and self-compassion. It helps you restore balance so you can continue to serve with presence and care. In This Guided Meditation, You Will Be Invited To: ✔ Explore mindful breathing as a way to ease tension and cultivate presence. ✔ Reflect on your deeper purpose and passion as a healer or mindfulness professional. ✔ Visualize resilience and strength to navigate the challenges of your work. ✔ Practice self-compassion and gratitude to nurture your well-being. This meditation is designed for therapists, coaches, healthcare providers, educators, and mindfulness teachers—those who support others and seek a practice to restore, recharge, and realign with their calling. Enjoyed this meditation? ⭐ Leave us a review and share how mindfulness enhances your professional practice! 🔗 Join our community to connect with other mindfulness professionals: Mindfulness Exercises Website: http://mindfulnessexercises.com/ Connect Community for Mindfulness Teachers: https://mindfulnessexercises.com/connect-mindfulness-community/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mindfulness.Exercises/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindfulness-exercises/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/exercising.mindfulness 🎧 Explore more guided meditations and mindfulness resources at Mindfulness Exercises. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

19 Feb 15min

This episode is sponsored by our Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification. Register today for 80% off at ⁠⁠https://mindfulnessexercises.com/certify⁠ In this inspiring episode of the Mindfulness Exercises Podcast, Sean Fargo explores the deep connection between mindfulness and creativity. Joined by Marni Freedman, a writing coach and therapist for artists who also runs the San Diego Writing Festival, they discuss how slowing down, creating space, and cultivating presence can unlock deeper creative expression. Mindfulness allows creativity to flow naturally by helping artists, writers, and musicians quiet self-doubt and connect with their true voice. What You’ll Discover: How mindfulness enhances creativity and artistic flow. Why slowing down and creating space fuels inspiration. The role of self-compassion and awareness in overcoming creative blocks. How to move beyond fear, self-judgment, and the pressure to “get it right.” The importance of playfulness, curiosity, and embodiment in creative work. Sean and Marni remind us that creativity isn’t just about producing—it’s about being present with the process, trusting the unfolding, and allowing inspiration to arise naturally. Timestamps: [00:01:00] The Link Between Mindfulness and Creativity – How awareness supports artistic expression. [00:10:00] Slowing Down for Creative Breakthroughs – The power of stillness and presence. [00:20:00] Navigating Self-Doubt and Fear – Mindful techniques for overcoming inner resistance. [00:30:00] Finding Your Authentic Voice – How mindfulness helps creatives connect with their essence. [00:40:00] The Role of Play and Fun in Creativity – Why lightness and experimentation fuel inspiration. [00:50:00] How to Sustain Creativity Through Mindfulness – Practical takeaways for artists and writers. Connect with Marnie Freedman Website: https://marnifreedman.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marni-freedman-96973511 Instagram: @marnifreedman18 👇 Explore more resources from Sean Fargo and learn how to deepen your mindfulness practice! 📜 Become Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification: https://bit.ly/MindfulnessCertify Trauma-Sensitivity Teaching Certification: https://bit.ly/METraumaSensitiveMindfulnessCourse 🌱 Be a Part of our Growing Community Mindfulness Exercises Website: http://mindfulnessexercises.com/ Connect Community for Mindfulness Teachers: https://mindfulnessexercises.com/connect-mindfulness-community/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mindfulness.Exercises/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindfulness-exercises/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/exercising.mindfulness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

17 Feb 40min

This episode is sponsored by our Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification. Register today for 80% off at ⁠⁠https://mindfulnessexercises.com/certify⁠ When designing a mindfulness retreat, one key question arises: Does the previous experience of the participants matter? Should a retreat for beginners look different from one for experienced practitioners? How much structure is needed versus allowing space for organic practice? In this episode of the Mindfulness Exercises Podcast, Sean Fargo explores the balance between guidance and openness when leading mindfulness retreats. He shares practical approaches to ensuring retreats are engaging and beneficial for both new and experienced practitioners—without overcomplicating the experience. Whether you're planning your first retreat or refining your approach, this episode covers how to design retreats, support different experience levels, and help participants feel confident in their practice. What You’ll Discover: How to design a mindfulness retreat for both beginners and experienced practitioners. The importance of simple, clear instructions without overloading participants. How to support newcomers struggling with self-doubt or an overactive inner critic. The role of self-compassion and mindfulness in overcoming fear and resistance. Why every mindfulness experience—even a beginner’s session—is always fresh and new. Sean reminds us that mindfulness isn’t about doing things perfectly—it’s about learning to meet each moment with awareness, curiosity, and kindness. Timestamps: [00:01:00] Does Experience Matter? – Structuring retreats for different experience levels. [00:10:00] Providing Guidance Without Overloading Information – Keeping it simple and clear. [00:20:00] Supporting Beginners – Addressing fears, self-doubt, and misconceptions about mindfulness. [00:30:00] Creating a Retreat That Meets People Where They Are – Balancing structure and organic flow. [00:40:00] Mindfulness as a Practice, Not a Performance – How to encourage self-compassion. [00:50:00] Key Takeaways for Retreat Leaders – Practical tips for creating a welcoming, effective retreat. 👇 Explore more resources from Sean Fargo and learn how to lead mindfulness retreats with confidence! 📜 Become Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification: https://bit.ly/MindfulnessCertify Trauma-Sensitivity Teaching Certification: https://bit.ly/METraumaSensitiveMindfulnessCourse 🌱 Be a Part of our Growing Community Mindfulness Exercises Website: http://mindfulnessexercises.com/ Connect Community for Mindfulness Teachers: https://mindfulnessexercises.com/connect-mindfulness-community/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mindfulness.Exercises/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindfulness-exercises/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/exercising.mindfulness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

14 Feb 23min

This episode is sponsored by our Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification. Register today for 80% off at ⁠⁠https://mindfulnessexercises.com/certify⁠ In this insightful episode of the Mindfulness Exercises Podcast, Sean Fargo explores the concept of mindfulness day retreats—structured mindfulness experiences that allow participants to immerse in deep practice while returning home at night. Sean shares practical strategies for structuring day retreats, ensuring continuity between sessions, and fostering deep mindfulness even with the break between days. Whether you're considering leading your first retreat or looking for ways to deepen your personal practice, this episode provides essential insights on creating a meaningful and transformative mindfulness retreat experience—without requiring overnight stays. What You’ll Discover: The benefits of day retreats versus traditional overnight retreats. How to structure a two-day retreat experience for depth and continuity. The role of silence, movement, and unstructured time in retreat design. Practical tips for guiding participants through transitions between retreat sessions. Why mindfulness retreats should focus on being over doing—and how to create space for true presence. Sean reminds us that retreats aren’t about checking off activities—they’re about coming home to the present moment. With the right structure and approach, even a single day of mindfulness practice can be profoundly impactful. Timestamps: [00:01:00] Why Day Retreats? – The benefits of a retreat without overnight stays. [00:10:00] Structuring a Mindfulness Retreat – Balancing guided practice, silence, and movement. [00:20:00] Creating Safe and Engaging Retreat Spaces – How to foster connection and openness. [00:30:00] Designing a Transformative Experience – The role of nature, deep listening, and organic flow. [00:45:00] Letting Go of Over-Planning – How presence and spontaneity enhance retreats. [00:55:00] Key Takeaways for Mindfulness Teachers – Practical insights for leading your first retreat. 👇 Explore more resources from Sean Fargo and learn how to lead your own mindfulness retreats! 📜 Become Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification: https://bit.ly/MindfulnessCertify Trauma-Sensitivity Teaching Certification: https://bit.ly/METraumaSensitiveMindfulnessCourse 🌱 Be a Part of our Growing Community Mindfulness Exercises Website: http://mindfulnessexercises.com/ Connect Community for Mindfulness Teachers: https://mindfulnessexercises.com/connect-mindfulness-community/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mindfulness.Exercises/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindfulness-exercises/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/exercising.mindfulness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12 Feb 20min

This episode is sponsored by our Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification. Register today for 80% off at ⁠⁠https://mindfulnessexercises.com/certify⁠ In this insightful episode of the Mindfulness Exercises Podcast, Sean Fargo explores how mindfulness can be a powerful tool for alleviating chronic pain. While pain itself is a physical experience, our relationship to it often creates unnecessary suffering. Through mindfulness, we can learn to soften resistance, shift our perception, and cultivate a gentler awareness of the body—offering relief without avoidance. Whether you experience chronic pain yourself or support others on their healing journey, this episode provides practical tools for using mindfulness to ease suffering and reconnect with the body in a compassionate way. What You’ll Discover: How mindfulness reduces the perception of pain by shifting our awareness. The difference between pain and the mental resistance that amplifies suffering. Gentle techniques to explore the body with curiosity instead of fear. Why softening judgment and resistance can help ease chronic pain. Practical steps for integrating mindfulness into pain management. Sean reminds us that healing is a journey and that small, compassionate steps can make a significant difference in how we experience pain—both physically and emotionally. Timestamps: [00:01:00] Mindfulness and Chronic Pain – How mindfulness can help alleviate suffering. [00:05:00] Why We Resist Pain – Understanding the fear and avoidance cycle. [00:10:00] Softening Resistance – Using mindfulness to change our relationship with pain. [00:20:00] Practical Techniques – Guided awareness and breath-based strategies. [00:30:00] Mindfulness for Healing Trauma – How mindfulness supports deep emotional and physical healing. [00:40:00] A Lifelong Journey – Integrating mindfulness into everyday life for sustainable relief. 👇 Explore more resources from Sean Fargo and learn how to teach mindfulness with confidence! 📜 Become Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification: https://bit.ly/MindfulnessCertify Trauma-Sensitivity Teaching Certification: https://bit.ly/METraumaSensitiveMindfulnessCourse 🌱 Be a Part of our Growing Community Mindfulness Exercises Website: http://mindfulnessexercises.com/ Connect Community for Mindfulness Teachers: https://mindfulnessexercises.com/connect-mindfulness-community/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mindfulness.Exercises/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindfulness-exercises/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/exercising.mindfulness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10 Feb 16min

This episode is sponsored by our Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification. Register today for 80% off at ⁠⁠https://mindfulnessexercises.com/certify⁠ In this thought-provoking episode of the Mindfulness Exercises Podcast, Sean Fargo unpacks one of the biggest misconceptions about mindfulness: that it’s about clearing the mind, suppressing emotions, or striving for constant calm. Instead, true mindfulness is about meeting whatever arises—thoughts, emotions, and sensations—with openness, curiosity, and non-judgment. Whether you're new to mindfulness or a seasoned practitioner, this episode will challenge the way you think about your mindfulness practice and help you embrace mindfulness as a way of being, rather than something to achieve. What You’ll Discover: Why mindfulness isn’t about controlling or eliminating thoughts. The difference between being with an experience versus fixing it. How to meet emotions—like fear, anger, or distraction—with gentle awareness. The hidden ways we use mindfulness as an escape rather than a tool for presence. Practical ways to integrate true mindfulness into daily life and teaching. Sean reminds us that mindfulness is not about transcending discomfort—it’s about turning toward it with kindness, acceptance, and a willingness to explore. Timestamps: [00:01:00] The Myth of Mindfulness – Why mindfulness isn’t about stopping thoughts or emotions. [00:05:00] Meeting Life As It Is – The power of presence without resistance. [00:10:00] How We Misuse Mindfulness – Recognizing when mindfulness becomes avoidance. [00:15:00] Exploring Emotional Layers – How to be with emotions rather than suppress them. [00:25:00] Bringing Mindfulness into Teaching & Coaching – A guide for facilitators and mindfulness teachers. [00:30:00] Practical Integration – How to embody mindfulness in everyday life. 👇 Explore more resources from Sean Fargo and learn how to teach mindfulness with confidence! 📜 Become Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification: https://bit.ly/MindfulnessCertify Trauma-Sensitivity Teaching Certification: https://bit.ly/METraumaSensitiveMindfulnessCourse 🌱 Be a Part of our Growing Community Mindfulness Exercises Website: http://mindfulnessexercises.com/ Connect Community for Mindfulness Teachers: https://mindfulnessexercises.com/connect-mindfulness-community/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mindfulness.Exercises/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindfulness-exercises/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/exercising.mindfulness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

6 Feb 12min

This episode is sponsored by our Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification. Register today for 80% off at ⁠⁠https://mindfulnessexercises.com/certify⁠ In this transformative episode of the Mindfulness Exercises Podcast, Sean Fargo explores the profound impact of retreats on mindfulness practice and teaching. Drawing from his experience as a former Buddhist monk and seasoned mindfulness teacher, Sean shares personal insights on why retreats can be one of the most powerful ways to deepen your mindfulness journey. Whether you're considering attending your first retreat, leading one, or simply curious about the practice, this episode offers a roadmap for understanding how retreats cultivate inner clarity, self-compassion, and a deeper sense of presence. What You’ll Discover: Why retreats are one of the most effective ways to deepen mindfulness practice. How stepping away from daily distractions enhances inner awareness. The stages of a retreat experience—from initial resistance to deep transformation. Practical tips for preparing for and integrating retreat learnings into daily life. The role of gentleness, curiosity, and surrender in retreat practice. Sean emphasizes that retreats are not about escaping reality, but about coming home to yourself—shedding distractions, breaking mental patterns, and embracing a greater sense of ease and presence. Timestamps: [00:01:00] The Transformative Power of Retreats – Why retreats are an essential tool for mindfulness practitioners and teachers. [00:05:00] Lessons from Silent Retreats – Sean shares experiences from his two years in retreat as a Buddhist monk. [00:10:00] The Challenge of Stillness – How facing discomfort leads to profound inner breakthroughs. [00:15:00] Gentle Awareness & Self-Compassion – Learning to meet yourself with kindness during a retreat. [00:25:00] Common Retreat Structures – Exploring different formats, from silent retreats to at-home retreats. [00:30:00] Integrating Retreat Lessons into Daily Life – How to transition back into everyday routines with presence and sensitivity. 👇 Explore more resources from Sean Fargo and learn how to start your own mindfulness journey! 📜 Become Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification: https://bit.ly/MindfulnessCertify Trauma-Sensitivity Teaching Certification: https://bit.ly/METraumaSensitiveMindfulnessCourse 🌱 Be a Part of our Growing Community Mindfulness Exercises Website: http://mindfulnessexercises.com/ Connect Community for Mindfulness Teachers: https://mindfulnessexercises.com/connect-mindfulness-community/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mindfulness.Exercises/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindfulness-exercises/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/exercising.mindfulness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3 Feb 40min